A rural clinic committed to the Gospel s advance among the. Demonstrating and proclaiming the Truth with compassion. unreached of Northern Benin
|
|
- Jeffery Walker
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 Sowing by Grace Demonstrating and proclaiming the Truth with compassion A rural clinic committed to the Gospel s advance among the unreached of Northern Benin Volume 5, Number 1
2 Features Your Servants for Jesus Sake Vision» Burden» Direction» I being in the way the Lord led me Partnering for the Advance of the Gospel in Difficult Places The Blessings and Challenges of Medical Mission Paperwork, Paperwork, and More Paperwork! The Logistics of starting a clinic in Africa Medicine in Missions History The Scalpel & The Sword Volume 5 Number 1 US Address: GDMMissions 150 Cross Street Methuen, MA Phone: office@gdmmissions.org President: Jack Mitchell Executive Director: Bryan Bell Editor: Michael Vetter Design/Layout: Bryan Bell, Ray Toomey Proofreader: Nancy Krawczyk On the Web Sowing by Grace is available online at sowing.html Permissions & Rights We encourage GDMMissions supporters to use material from Sowing by Grace to mobilize churches and individuals for missions. Permission is granted to copy or excerpt material as published without photos for non-commercial purposes as long as this publication is credited as the source. All other rights are reserved by GDMMissions, and permission for other commercial or non-commercial use requires written permission. by Grace Dental and Medical Missions, Inc.
3 your servants for Jesus sake by Michael Vetter, Editor The articles in this issue of Sowing by Grace explain our vision for a medical clinic in the northern region of the African country of Benin as a base for spreading the gospel. When I think of this challenging effort, it brings to my mind the passage in the apostle Paul s second epistle to the Corinthian church that explained his motivation when he came with the gospel to their city. He and his team were used to manifest the truth while they endured painful difficulties and opposition. (II Cor 4:1-2) Paul had a twofold desire: that he and his team not be the focus of their ministry, but that Christ Jesus the Lord would be preeminent; and, that the Corinthians believers should consider Paul and his partners your servants for Jesus sake. (v. 5) GDMMissions missionaries and those on our short-term missions trips are similarly motivated to share the gospel around the world as servants for Jesus sake. In the past six months we have experienced some significant events in our ministry and enjoyed many blessings: some high-impact dental/medical evangelism trips to Africa, the Philippines, and Micronesia; new missionaries Rick and Becky Enterline; and a larger home office facility have demonstrated that God is abundantly faithful. This issue of Sowing by Grace is devoted to sharing a project that has been on our minds and hearts for several years. One of our long term strategic goals for the mission has been to establish a permanent clinic somewhere in Africa to provide patients with follow-up medical care and spiritual discipleship. When a team was in northern Benin last January ministering in a predominantly Muslim tribal area, the pieces seemed to fall into place to present a unique opportunity. GDMMissions leaders discovered that they shared a common vision with missionary Colin Ovenell and local pastor Zak for evangelism complemented by medical care. The idea for the Benin Clinic Project began to take shape! Enjoy the articles in this issue of Sowing by Grace devoted to the Benin Clinic that introduce its origin in the heart of a missionary pastor, how GDMMissions is and will be involved, and what must be done to establish a state-recognized medical and religious facility in northern Benin. Finally, we hope you ll be encouraged by another book review from Jennifer Mitchell on the life of Dr. Lincoln Nelson, M.D. whose medical ministry in the Philippines spanned an amazing sixty years. s Sowing by Grace 3
4 »» the Lord led me by Colin Ovenell, Missionary to Benin 99% by most estimates). As is customary, Joshua mentioned in passing (although very intentionally), that he would appreciate if I could help him find interested sponsors who would be willing to partner in a medical outreach with a vision toward evangelism I being in the way This confession by Abraham s servant spoke of God s sovereign control over the affairs of the patriarch when it came to choosing a wife for his master s son, Isaac. This simple phrase is instructive because it reminds us that God works today through the purposed flow of ordinary events in our lives to ultimately bring glory to Himself. Jesus Christ is magnified when we take the time to reflect on how He is working. I was sitting in my living room one day with Joshua, a Beninese brother in Christ, who shares our burden for reaching the Dendi people of northern Benin with the gospel. Joshua is a registered nurse with a heart for medical evangelism. The Dendi tribes are a predominately Muslim people group (over among the Dendi tribes. As church planting missionaries, we were most certainly interested but the concept passed through my mind like water under a bridge when I considered an already-heavy ministry workload. We parted ways and agreed to make a medical mission a subject of our ongoing prayers. Several months later, Bryan Bell of GDMMissions wrote to us and asked about the possibility of bringing a medical team to assist in opening doors for the gospel on this 4 Sowing by Grace
5 Vision» Burden Direction challenging field in northern Benin. To our needs of the local population to the best of surprise, governmental doors were opened wide their abilities from a little mud hut near the and GDMMissions was welcomed into the church building. region shortly after we began making inquiries. A local pastor in one of a very few villages with Medical evangelism is not the only strategy an established local church, had recognized for reaching the lost for Christ in our region, the chronic need in his village for medical but it has in fact become a very large part care around the same time. He and his wife in an overall strategy which includes ongoing had lost a son to malaria and knew of many church planting ministries, Bible translation, other families in the surrounding region who and leadership training. Medical intervention were losing loved ones to illnesses that often and evangelistic efforts have intertwined to required only basic intervention. He reached become an integral part of all aspects of the out to Joshua and together they discovered a goal of taking our Savior to the Dendi people. common vision for a small medical dispensary. God has very evidently orchestrated the details With minimal funds they began meeting the of this work. Being in the way the Lord leads us. We are excited to witness this work blossom into fruit for God s praise and glory. s Sowing by Grace 5
6 Partnering for the Advance of the Gospel in Difficult Places Partnerships have been integral to the advance of the gospel since our Lord commanded the great commission and the Holy Spirit empowered believers to live the gospel in and before a hostile world. When Paul closed his letter to the believers in Rome he mentioned more than 30 individuals, most of them by name, who were crucial to the advance of the gospel. These fellow workers or partners (a term used five times) made the advance of the gospel possible in spite of the restrictions and persecution imposed on that great apostolic missionary. Paul s partners had various gifts and roles: Timothy, mentioned in verse 21 of Romans 16, served as a fellow missionary and a pastor of the church in Ephesus; Priscilla and Aquila, mentioned in verse 3, served in the trenches with Paul, risking their own necks for the apostle and for the gospel s advance; Mary, who appears in verse 6, worked hard and faithfully meeting logistical needs; Phoebe, who is commended to the church in Rome, is called a succourer or a patron of Paul and others; finally, the apostle s ministry was supported financially by Phoebe. It took a by Bryan Bell, Executive Director, GDMMissions team of individuals and churches striving together for the sake of the gospel to take God s message of salvation to the world. In an effort to see the gospel advance in the harsh Muslim-dominated territory of northern Benin, GDMMissions is partnering with veteran missionary Colin Ovenell and the Boifo Baptist Church to establish a medical clinic that will function as a forward command post for the gospel of Christ. The clinic, once registered with the government of Benin, will be incorporated as a health and training organization, thus providing an umbrella for regional evangelism, on-going discipleship, and the training of national men for church ministry. Colin and Teena Ovenell have ministered in northern Benin for eight years. Their understanding of the language, culture, and religious tensions of that region make them indispensable assets to a work in this region. Through their mission board, Faith Baptist Mission of Winterhaven, FL, they will provide local oversight for the clinic project. As the Field Coordinator, Colin will oversee the initial building phase and provide high-level 6 Sowing by Grace
7 management of the facilities and ministry once the medical clinic is operational. Having the Ovenells on the field in the town of Boifo will allow short-term teams of medical and ministry personal from GDMMissions to enhance this ministry s effectiveness. The vision for the clinic was born out of Pastor Zak s desire to reach the large Muslim population in and around his village. Efforts to place evangelists in other villages have failed. Villages that once had a gospel witness twenty years ago have no light today. The Boifo Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Zak is committed to train, equip, and engage in sustained evangelism and discipleship using the clinic as a focal point within the Muslim community. A medical clinic for the region brings people where gospel seeds can be sown in territory that is friendly to the gospel. A clinic also demonstrates Christ s compassion something completely foreign within northern Benin s Muslim context. A clinic helps build trust and relationships which are key ingredients in reaching any tribal group. As a committed partner, GDMMissions medical non-profit status will expedite the process of securing legal standing with the Benin government. GDMMissions will provide medical expertise and deploy state-side medical professionals to train national medical personnel to provide care that exceeds the current dysfunctional/non-existent health care options in the region. GDMMissions will also serve as the financial conduit for accountability and sustainability. Partnerships are crucial for successful ministry. Advancing the Gospel in harsh places like northern Benin requires many partners with widely varying roles. What role would God have for you in this partnership? s Sowing by Grace 7
8 The Blessings and Challenges of M in remote short-term situations It was a joy to serve with GDMMissions in the Philippines as a resident physician for two weeks in May, 2011 and again for two weeks in May, While my first trip in 2011 was the third time I had participated in a medical or dental ministry overseas, it was my first time doing so as a physician. I was excited about the opportunity to take time out of residency [Stony Brook University School of Medicine in Long Island, NY] to serve, but also nervous about working independently for the first time in an unfamiliar setting, with limited resources. I am so thankful that I was able to come boldly to the throne of grace and experience the peace that comes with bringing every concern and obstacle to the Lord and trusting His ability to work out the details as He sees fit. The value and gravity of this type of ministry became readily apparent on the first day of our clinic in 2011 when eight hundred patients showed up early in the morning at the church in Brooke s Point, Palawan hoping to be evaluated in the clinic that day. I immediately realized that I would be of more value to these patients, and our medical evangelism team, if I evaluated them efficiently and independently in order to maximize the number of patients we treated, instead of the American model I was used to that involved spending a longer time with each patient and then discussing cases with a senior physician. God knew which village clinics would be the busiest, and in each of those locations He saw fit to provide local nurses, physicians, dentists, and other local believers with useful skills to allow us to work most efficiently to provide care for large numbers of people. It was exciting to see God at work as all of those whose physical needs were met also had the opportunity to hear how they could be by Stephen Boutrus, MD reconciled to God through the work of Christ on their behalf. Many made professions of faith or expressed interest in further contact with the local church pastors and believers with whom we worked. We also had the joy of meeting with the local believers for church services and times to pray with them as they sought to continue to carry out the rest of the great commission after we left: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you. (Matthew 28:20) God allowed many interesting challenges to arise 8 Sowing by Grace
9 edical Missions both in 2011 and At one location, our supplies had to be pulled into the mountains on sleds by water buffalo while we hiked up on foot. At another village, the government sent inspectors to the clinic to look for faults in the care we were providing. In one setting, I spoke English, which was translated by one person into Tagalog, which was then translated by another into the local dialect. The patient replied in the local dialect, which was translated back to Tagalog and then back to English. By the time I received a reply in English a couple of minutes later, it was not an answer to the question I had originally asked! In another setting, I was told for weeks before our trip that the local government would not allow me to practice medicine in that location. Then, I was able to praise God that He saw fit to have them reverse this decision the day before I arrived. Through these and many other challenges, the one constant was God s faithfulness in ensuring that no obstacle would prevent an effective ministry for His glory. Traveling with GDMMissions to the Philippines in 2011 and 2012 was both an opportunity to serve our wonderful Savior and an encouragement to me. It is a reminder of the greatness of our God as He shines through simple clay vessels like us to work wonders in the lives of people (II Corinthians 4:7), and also a stimulus to pray for the many needs of church-planting pastors and local believers as they seek to serve the Lord, both in the U.S., the Philippines, and around the world. s Sowing by Grace 9
10 Paperwork, Paperwork, and More Paperwork! How do you begin a medical clinic in a remote region of Africa? Where will the doctors and nurses come from? What will it cost? How do you turn a vision into a reality? Where do you start? Jeremiah put his faith in the LORD when the armies of Babylon surrounded Jerusalem and threatened its total destruction: Ah Lord GOD! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee (Jeremiah 32:17) God reassured the prophet that He would make sure that Israel was not completely obliterated but would one day return to the land because, Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for Me? (v. 27; cf. Genesis 18:14) GDMMissions has always trusted the same God to provide all that is needed according to His divine will to take the gospel to the far ends of the earth. Sensing that He has opened unique doors of opportunity to make Jesus Christ known in the northern region of Benin, we are trusting Him to meet our needs in the Benin Clinic Project. As we make plans for a medical clinic in northern Benin, we recognize the positive aspects of the political and cultural climate in that country. Northern Benin is in a remote, rural, sparsely populated area of the country and thus more removed from the politics and turmoil of the capitol in the south. The people are tribal and cautious of newcomers. This insular culture, although almost entirely Muslim, offers missionaries and local believers many opportunities to establish oneon-one relationships and demonstrate the love of Christ on a personal level. Thankfully we don t need to start from scratch! A small church-sponsored medical dispensary, with limited staffing in the village of Boifo, has, in the past, created positive openings for sharing the gospel with an appreciative people and made an impact on the health of the villagers. With this favorable experience in mind, a local chieftain offered the local church of Boifo a plot of land upon which to construct buildings for a permanent medical clinic. With a village location identified and a local church to sponsor the clinic, where do we go from here? As you might expect, the answer is three words paperwork, Paperwork, PAPERWORK! Nothing can move forward in Benin without paperwork, and lots of it! We have begun charter documents to operate officially in Benin as a nonprofit Non-Governmental Organization. (NGO) This will allow us to conduct routine business transactions, purchase supplies, ship medical supplies and equipment, license professional health workers, and move workers within the northern tribal regions. There are other licenses and permits needed, but the journey has begun. We ask your prayers to work in the hearts of national and local government officials to view the clinic favorably and give speedy approval to our requests. We are making information available about the Benin Clinic Project through a web site as we begin speaking about the clinic in local churches. A brochure is available on the clinic web site and the GDMMissions web site s 10 Sowing by Grace
11 Medicine in Missions History The Scalpel & the Sword Medical Missions in the Philippines And take the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. (Ephesians 6:17) Lincoln Nelson was saved as a young boy and had no idea what a medical missionary was until he heard one speak at a youth camp when he was in the sixth grade. That was in From then on, Linc, as he was called, knew that he wanted to be a doctor who told people about Jesus. Following his desire, he entered college and began a premedical program. When World War II broke out he enlisted in the United States Navy and, through a special program, was able to continue his college courses. He went on to medical school, still attached to the Navy, and gained valuable training and experience that he would later use on the mission field. Linc married his childhood sweetheart, Lenore, who was also interested in medicine, and she gained her degree in nursing. Their desire after medical school was to go to Dutch New Guinea to serve the Lord, but the way was blocked by the Dutch Religious Consul who controlled all religious works in the Dutch East Indies. When their orders from the Navy sent them to the Philippine Islands, they saw this as God s direction and rejoiced. When Linc completed his military obligation in the Philippines, they would be already in their country of service, with much of the cultural adjustments behind them. And so began thirty-eight years in the Philippines by Jennifer Mitchell, Dental Assistant treating its people and sharing God s Word with them. Linc was primarily a surgeon and Lenore his operating room nurse, although often he was called upon to hike to remote villages to operate on those too sick or badly injured to come to the Baptist clinic where he worked. While in these villages he would gather the people together and tell them of a loving Savior who had given His life for them on the cross. Linc and Lenore lived and served most of their years on Mindanao, the Philippines most southern island, but they were also concerned for the sick and indigent patients on the neighboring island of Palawan. Soon, Linc and some of the other missionaries had established an itinerary of monthly fly-in clinics. They flew to remote coastal villages, treated the people in need, and held Gospel services in the evening. Then, the next day they would repeat that schedule. Groups of believers sprang up and churches were formed. The same ministry was begun on the island of Leyte, where opposition by leaders of a dominant religious group had constantly hindered church planting efforts in the past. The medical team was able to break down some of the prejudice that had created barriers in the past and soon patients were coming in increasing numbers. A Baptist clinic was built and became a center for evangelism. God used these medical teams as catalysts to introduce hundreds of people to Jesus Christ. Whether in the operating room or in the jungle, Linc used the skills God had allowed him to acquire to reach the people of the Philippines with Sowing by Grace 11
12 the Gospel. To a medical missionary, medicine is not an end in itself, but a means to an end. Using the Word of God, evangelism was his main burden. Dr. Lincoln Nelson fully understood the definition of a medical missionary: one who wields both the scalpel and the sword. (Editor - Dr. Lincoln David Nelson, 88, joyfully entered the presence of His Lord and Savior on Thursday, March 15, According to his obituary reprinted by ABWE, for sixty years he performed surgeries and helped to start four hospitals in the Philippines, which in turn started more than one hundred twenty churches.) Taken from With Scalpel and the Sword - An American Doctor s Odyssey in the Philippines by Lincoln D. Nelson M.D., ABWE Publishing. Get & Stay Connected GDMMissions needs your prayers. To keep you informed we publish regular reports and notices via . Sign up at html. After inputting your address in the signup box, you will be prompted to choose which type of communication you would like to receive including the Mitchell s, or Bell s newsletters, and ministry opportunity bulletins for medical and non-medical personnel. Sign up today. Sowing by Grace Grace Dental & Medical Missions 150 Cross Street Methuen, MA Change Service Requested Presorted Standard Non-Profit Org. US Postage Paid Dracut, MA Permit No. 3
Demonstrating and proclaiming the Truth with compassion
Sowing by Grace Demonstrating and proclaiming the Truth with compassion Volume 6, Number 1 features 3 Volume 6 Number 1 US Address: GDMMissions 150 Cross Street Methuen, MA 01844 Phone: 978.454.6710 E-mail:
More informationNEW HARVEST MISSIONS INTERNATIONAL FUNDRAISING
NEW HARVEST MISSIONS INTERNATIONAL FUNDRAISING N E W H A R V E S T M I S S I O N S I N T E R N A T I O N A L Dear New Harvest Missions International Supporters, The Christmas season is quickly approaching,
More informationDemonstrating and proclaiming the Truth with compassion
Sowing by Grace Demonstrating and proclaiming the Truth with compassion Highlighted in this issue: Volume 5, Number 2 features Volume 5 Number 2 Exercising and Stretching for growth Compelled, Directed,
More informationNEW HARVEST MISSIONS INTERNATIONAL FUNDRAISING
FUNDRAISING N E W H A R V E S T M I S S I O N S I N T E R N A T I O N A L Dear New Harvest Missions International Supporters, The Christmas season is quickly approaching, and many of us will be called
More informationDemonstrating and proclaiming the Truth with compassion. Outer Island Sowing & Reaping. Serving as Fellowhelpers. Summer 2011 Volume 2, Number 2
Sowing bygrace Demonstrating and proclaiming the Truth with compassion Outer Island Sowing & Reaping Serving as Fellowhelpers Volume 2, Number 2 Features Fellowhelpers - Then & Now Behind the Scenes -
More informationDemonstrating and proclaiming the Truth with compassion. Sharing God s Word. Spring 2012 Volume 3, Number 3
Sowing by Grace Demonstrating and proclaiming the Truth with compassion Sharing God s Word Volume 3, Number 3 Features Holding God s Word in My Hands frees God s Word Bound Prisoners Medical Missions Universal
More informationOUR VISION: TO TRANSFORM LIVES AND SEE ALL ISRAEL SAVED OUR HISTORY
WHO WE ARE OUR VISION: TO TRANSFORM LIVES AND SEE ALL ISRAEL SAVED The mission of Jewish Voice Ministries International (JVMI) is to proclaim the Gospel, grow the Messianic Jewish community and engage
More informationtable of contents Adult Sunday School Playbook
Adult Sunday School Playbook table of contents Church Vision... 2-3 Sunday School Leadership Introduction... 4-5 Sunday School Mission... 6-7 The Vision of the Church is the Mission of the Sunday School
More informationGuide to Adopting A People By the Frontier Mission Alliance
Guide to Adopting A People By the Frontier Mission Alliance The Rationale In our world today there are an estimated 24,000 ethno-linguistic groups each with their own dialect and cultural tradition. The
More informationMissions Purpose, Strategy & Policy
Missions Purpose, Strategy & Policy (Please revise to best define your missions program) I. DEFINITION, PURPOSE, & POLICY A. Definition of Missions Name of your church defines missions to be any evangelistic
More informationBusiness Plan April 2012
Business Plan April 2012-1 - Revision 0 Table of Contents I. Introduction...3 II. Purpose and Mission Statement...3 III. IV. Governing Principles and Considerations...3 Executive Summary...4 V. Roles and
More informationEQUIP Training Cross-Cultural Church Planters
EQUIP Training Cross-Cultural Church Planters www.nycinternationalproject.org Page 2 of 11 Table of Contents Introduction to EQUIP... 3 Training Objectives... 4 Filling the Earth Seminar... 5 Reaching
More informationNew Life Christian Fellowship Mission Policy
New Life Christian Fellowship Mission Policy I. PURPOSE A. Definition of Missions New Life Christian Fellowship defines missions to be any evangelistic endeavor outside our local congregation to fulfill
More informationA B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q
SPIRITUAL GIFTS INVENTORY ASSESSMENT NAME: DATE: DIRECTIONS: Before taking this analysis, you should understand a few prerequisites for spiritual gift discovery. You must be a born-again Christian and
More informationWHO WE ARE OUR VISION: TO TRANSFORM LIVES AND SEE ALL ISRAEL SAVED
WHO WE ARE OUR VISION: TO TRANSFORM LIVES AND SEE ALL ISRAEL SAVED The mission of Jewish Voice Ministries International (JVMI) is to proclaim the Gospel, engage the Church concerning Israel and the Jewish
More informationMissions Position Paper
Missions Position Paper The gospel is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes and the church is God s appointed means of reaching the lost world. The proper guidance and instruction for
More informationTHE AFRICAN AMERICAN MISSIONS MOBILIZATION MANIFESTO 2007
INTRODUCTION THE AFRICAN AMERICAN MISSIONS MOBILIZATION MANIFESTO 2007 We do humbly acknowledge that God has called the African American church to a unique role in helping to fulfill the Great Commission.
More informationINTERNATIONAL MINISTRIES MAY 2015
INTERNATIONAL MINISTRIES MAY 2015 On the Ground MYANMAR Fellowship Bible Church The Thingyan Water Festival is the biggest Buddhist holiday of the year. They believe that water washes away the bad luck
More informationCentenary Downtown. Strategic Plan Doing God s Will in Richmond. Vision Statement. Staffing. Church Governance. Church Finances 2017 Goal
Vision Statement Staffing Church Governance Church Finances 2017 Goal 2017 Goal 2017 Goal 2017 Goal Centenary Downtown Strategic Plan 2017 2020 Doing God s Will in Richmond Music Ministry 2018 2020 Goals
More informationVenture Old Routt Road, Louisville, KY 40299
Venture www.teamexpansion.org info@teamexpansion.org 4112 Old Routt Road, Louisville, KY 40299 glad to meet you We are really glad you are interested in learning more about Team Expansion. We are glad
More informationArchdeacon for Rural Mission. Role Information Pack
Archdeacon for Rural Mission (Growing in God in the Countryside Project Director) Role Information Pack A message from Bishop Martin Thank you for your interest in this post. With the whole Church of England,
More informationSpiritual Gifts Assessment Traders Point Christian Church
Spiritual Gifts Assessment God has given every Christian at least one spiritual gift, and probably more. This questionnaire is designed to help you understand what your spiritual gifts are and how to use
More informationLesson 1: The Great Commission ~ Part 1
(Fulfilling the Great Commission as a Leader) (Adapted from material from Global Focus, Inc., Atlanta, GA, USA) Dr. Larry D. Reesor, Founder/President Lesson 1: The Great Commission ~ Part 1 The Big Idea:...
More informationBethel Church Global Ministry Priorities
Bethel Church Global Ministry Priorities 1. Strategic Focus 2. Unreached People Groups 3. Global City Focus 4. Leadership Development 5. Missional Living Executive Summary The following global priorities
More informationTRANSFORMATION INDIA MOVEMENT (TIM)
TRANSFORMATION INDIA MOVEMENT (TIM) (Celebrating 10 years of God s faithfulness) ACTIVITIES REPORT Transformation India Movement was founded by Biju & Margaret Thomas in 2002 with a vision to bring spiritual,
More informationPraying. with. Fire. Change Your World with the Powerful Prayers of the Apostles. Jeff Doles
Praying with Fire Change Your World with the Powerful Prayers of the Apostles Jeff Doles 1 praying with fire Praying With Fire 2004 by Jeff Doles All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be
More informationBiblical References to Spiritual Gifts
Biblical References to Spiritual Gifts For to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, and to another the word of knowledge according to the same Spirit; to another faith by the same Spirit,
More informationYou. Sharing Jesus. WHAT IS CONNECT US? IMPRESSIVE RESULTS. Dear Concerned Christians and Church Leaders,
You. Sharing Jesus. Dear Concerned Christians and Church Leaders, DO YOU LOVE AMERICA AND AMERICANS? DO YOU WANT THE GOOD NEWS TO BLESS THEIR LIVES? DO YOU WANT TO FIND SPIRITUAL SEEKERS IN YOUR COMMUNITY?
More information2018 GOALS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS
One Hundred Seventy-Second Annual Report P.O. Box 6767 (3806 Monument Avenue), Richmond, Virginia 23230 2018 GOALS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS Relative to the listed Ministry Assignment, please describe accomplishments
More informationINTRODUCTION. Our desire and goal can be summarized in the following words: Loving God...Loving You (Mark 12:30, 31)
STRATEGIC PLAN 2008-2013 Our Purpose Statement: Our purpose, as a fellowship united in our Lord Jesus Christ, is to worship God through evangelism and discipleship by the power of the Holy Spirit. INTRODUCTION
More informationApostle Dell Young Founder/Overseer
Apostle Dell Young Founder/Overseer Kingdom- Change Ministries (KCM) is a relationship- based fellowship that was established to help equip, support, and strengthen churches and ministries that have a
More informationJOB DESCRIPTIONS. Senior Pastor. Associate Pastor. Student Ministries Director. Music Ministries Director. Children s Ministries Director
JOB DESCRIPTIONS Senior Pastor Associate Pastor Student Ministries Director Music Ministries Director Children s Ministries Director Family Life Ministries Director Christian Education Ministries Director
More informationBasic Design For Woman s Missionary Union In an Association
Basic Design For Woman s Missionary Union In an Association Effective September 1, 2013 Program Design Document Woman s Missionary Union P. O. Box 830010 Birmingham, Alabama 35283-0010 This document reflects
More informationMetro Mobile Baptist Campus Ministries Report to the Mobile Baptist Association for
Metro Mobile Baptist Campus Ministries Report to the Mobile Baptist Association for 2017-2018 Gathering, Growing and Sending Collegians in Mobile County Baptist Campus Ministries has been providing evangelistic
More informationGLOBAL OUTREACH PARTNERS
GLOBAL OUTREACH PARTNERS Ways You Can Encourage Global Partners PRAY A sending church is a praying church. Paul certainly held this conviction as he consistently asked churches for prayers in his letters
More informationTennessee Baptist Missionary and Educational Convention, Inc. Missions Ministry
1 Tennessee Baptist Missionary and Educational Convention, Inc. Missions Ministry STAFF: Elder Dr. Joe B. Maddox, Director of Missions Rev. C. Danny Johnson, Assistant Director of Missions Rev. Dr. Brian
More informationCHURCH PLANTING PROSPECTUS 1
CHURCH PLANTING PROSPECTUS 1 ENDORSEMENTS Paul and Kristen have a love for the people of Portland that is contagious. We lookforward to partnering with them now and as their church makes disciples and
More informationthe profit of many, that many be saved
the profit of many, that many be saved Prospectus 2011-2015 (Year 2) S.O.S. Ministries Our Mission S.O.S. Ministries ventures far and wide to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ Pioneer church planting where
More informationShould The Missionary Establish Institutions?
Should The Missionary Establish Institutions? Introduction: Many current authorities on missions feel strongly that missionaries should not become entangled in establishing, running and financing institutions
More informationMinistry Opportunity Student Ministry Pastor Open Bible Praise Center Boonville, Missouri
Ministry Opportunity Student Ministry Pastor Open Bible Praise Center Boonville, Missouri Boonville is a great place to be. A river city full of charm and beauty, it is home to beautiful parks, well preserved
More informationWeek Three August 27, 2017 Paul s Role in Starting New Churches
THIS IS US Week Three August 27, 2017 Paul s Role in Starting New Churches MONDAY THROUGH WEDNESDAY Spend some time alone with God s Word reading through Acts 13 14, Acts 15:35 18:22, and Acts 18:23 21:17.
More informationCody Missionary Alliance Church. Missions Policy
Cody Missionary Alliance Church Missions Policy What is Missions As a church, we exist to point people to God by loving Jesus supremely, proclaiming Him passionately, and serving others sacrificially.
More informationMULTI directional. MULTI ethnic. MULTI skilled
MULTI directional MULTI ethnic MULTI skilled engaged in Christ s mission Matthew 28:16-20 Galilee! (4:12-17) WORSHIP is our starting point LORDSHIP is our founding authority DISCIPLESHIP is our central
More informationCircle of Influence Strategy (For YFC Staff)
Circle of Influence Strategy (For YFC Staff) Table of Contents Introduction 2 Circle of Influence Cycle 4 Quick Facts COI Introduction 8 Find, Win, Keep, Lift 9 Appendix A: Core Giving Resources 11 Appendix
More informationCHURCH OF HOPE EVANGELISM AND MINISTRY TRAINING COURSE BY AND WEBSITE: STUDY GUIDE: WEEK EIGHT
CHURCH OF HOPE EVANGELISM AND MINISTRY TRAINING COURSE BY EMAIL AND WEBSITE: STUDY GUIDE: WEEK EIGHT TOPIC SEVEN: THE IMPORTANCE OF MAKING DISCIPLES (INTRODUCTION) INTRODUCTION TO WEEK EIGHT: In this week
More informationWe exist to. glorify God. by making Disciples. as we love and serve Noosa
We exist to glorify God by making Disciples as we love and serve Noosa VISION 2020 2 WE EXIST TO GLORIFY GOD BY MAKING DISCIPLES From our Minister Dear friends Our 2020 vision has been 2000 years in the
More informationPosition Description. Minister of Student and Family Ministries. VISION STATEMENT Discipleship Evangelism Service
Position Description FBC MISSION STATEMENT Friendship Baptist Church is a church where Christ is magnified; through individually and collectively presenting ourselves to Christ as a living and holy offering.
More informationYou and I have been chosen for such a time as this.
Dear Gospel Ambassador, I thank God upon every remembrance of you, always making mention of you in my prayers, remembering without ceasing, your work of faith, labor of love and patience of hope in our
More informationBIBLICAL FAITHFULNESS GOSPEL CENTRALITY MISSION
WHY MAKE DISCIPLES? BIBLICAL FAITHFULNESS In what we refer to as The Great Commission, Jesus command is clear. We are called to Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name
More informationSPECIAL EDITION N E W Y E A R E D I T I O N J A N U A R Y
SPECIAL EDITION N E W Y E A R E D I T I O N J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 8 John 12:24 (KJV): Verily, verily I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die,
More informationFirst Church Anniversary for The Essential Church. Sermon Subject: House Churches. Scripture: Romans 16:3-5; 1 Corinthians 16:19
First Church Anniversary for The Essential Church Sermon Subject: House Churches Scripture: Romans 16:3-5; 1 Corinthians 16:19 House churches. Depending on whom you ask, it s a concept with mixed impressions.
More informationDavid Chapel Missionary Baptist Church Joseph C. Parker, Jr., Esquire, D. Min., Senior Pastor
David Chapel Missionary Baptist Church Joseph C. Parker, Jr., Esquire, D. Min., Senior Pastor 2003-2008 David Chapel Missionary Baptist Church Strategic Plan Achievements 2003-2008 Strategic Plan Achievements
More informationA Vision... Vision. God Is Doing Incredible Things At Rosemont. Max. prosper and not to harm you; plans to give you hope and a future.
A Vision... God Is Doing Incredible Things At Rosemont. Over the last several years, we have experienced tremendous growth, and I believe that growth will continue for many years to come. As we near completion
More informationUsing The NOW Model For Effective Ministry In Small Congregations by William F. Appleby
Hinton Models for Ministry Using The NOW Model For Effective Ministry In Small Congregations by William F. Appleby Models for Ministry in small membership churches are occasional publications of the Hinton
More informationDiscipleship. Handbook. A Resource for Seventh-day Adventist Church Members
Discipleship Handbook A Resource for Seventh-day Adventist Church Members Copyright 2018 by the General Conference Corporation of Seventh-day Adventists All rights reserved Published by Review and Herald
More information2017 PRESIDENT S MINISTRY REPORT. SIM is a century-old catalyst for global missions dedicated to prayer and care in bringing good news to hard places.
2017 PRESIDENT S MINISTRY REPORT SIM is a century-old catalyst for global missions dedicated to prayer and care in bringing good news to hard places. YOUR LONG-TERM INFLUENCE Of SIM s many thriving ministries
More informationFocus: StoryRunners March 2013
Focus: StoryRunners March 2013 The Great Commission Global Prayer Movement See each monthly issue at http://globalprayermovement.org Friday, 1 March Pray for our teams of trainers leading Schools of Storying
More information2009 VOLUME 3 MAY/JUNE, 2011 ISSUE
Prayerwalking Taking Your Faith Into The Real World Copyright 2009 VOLUME 3 MAY/JUNE, 2011 ISSUE 3 Praying Outside The Box You may be wondering what praying outside the box means. This means learning to
More informationCHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
APPOINTMENT OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be the glory in the church and
More informationGrace Baptist Church Leadership Structure
Grace Baptist Church Leadership Structure Page 1 of 46 TABLE OF CONTENTS Church Organization Chart... 3 Pastor... 4 Elders... 5 Deacons... 6 Chairman of the Deacons Staff..... 8 Accompanist Administrative
More informationCoworkers for the Kingdom 2 Corinthians 6:1-10 (NKJV)
Coworkers for the Kingdom 2 Corinthians 6:1-10 (NKJV) Chapter 6 is really a continuation of chapter 5 where Paul discussed his motivation for service. Now he moves on and reminds us that we are not alone
More informationJoining God s story of redemption in our neighborhoods.
The Mill Church Joining God s story of redemption in our neighborhoods. OUR STORY STARTS HERE ON THIS TRUTH WE STAND 18 And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates
More informationPRAY SUB-SAHARAN AFRICAN PEOPLES
PRAY SUB-SAHARAN AFRICAN PEOPLES Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 INTERNATIONAL MISSION
More informationSPIRITUAL GIFTS ASSESSMENT DISCOVER YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS
SPIRITUAL GIFTS ASSESSMENT DISCOVER YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS NAME : DATE : C3CHURCH SPIRITUALGIFTS 1 YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTINGS Rate the following question and place answer on back page. 3 = Consistently / Definitely
More informationDear Eric, Again thank you for the opportunity. Doing Life Together, Jim & Jennifer Wilkes
Dear Eric, Again thank you for your assistance in engaging, encouraging, and equipping Jennifer and I on this wonderful adventure called church planting. You and the Ohio District have been amazing. A
More informationWomen of Prayer and Praise Fasting Commitment: January 4-25, 2015 Theme: Totally Committed to Christ Matthew 22:37, I Kings 8:61
Women of Prayer and Praise Fasting Commitment: January 4-25, 2015 Theme: Totally Committed to Christ Matthew 22:37, I Kings 8:61 Name Corporate Prayer (9pm Daily) Telephone: (712) 432 0460 Code: 180570#
More information29 East Street P.O. Box 133 Northfield, Vermont (802) Membership Manual. This Notebook Belongs to:
29 East Street P.O. Box 133 Northfield, Vermont 05663 www.newlifevt.com (802) 485-5171 Membership Manual This Notebook Belongs to: Today s Date: / / Membership Survey (use extra paper if necessary) Name:
More informationMINISTRY DESCRIPTIONS OF ASSOCIATIONAL OFFICERS, COUNCIL AND TEAMS
MINISTRY DESCRIPTIONS OF ASSOCIATIONAL OFFICERS, COUNCIL AND TEAMS 1 Task Description of the LEGAL OFFICERS OF THE CORPORATION Election The Legal Officers of the Corporation shall be President/Director,
More informationTogether, open your Bibles and read from Acts 8:26-40 then watch Session 1. What stood out to you the most from this past weekend service?
SESSION 1 IMMERSE CONVERSATION STARTER If you had to eat the same meal every day for the rest of your life what would it be? DIGGING DEEPER Together, open your Bibles and read from Acts 8:26-40 then watch
More informationLCC CONSTITUTION. Puyallup, Washington September 1992
LCC CONSTITUTION Puyallup, Washington September 1992 Last Revision February 22, 2016 LIGHTHOUSE CHRISTIAN CENTER CONSTITUTION Puyallup, Washington ARTICLE 1 Introduction We have written this constitution
More informationChristian Training Center of Branch of the Lord
Christian Training Center of Branch of the Lord Presents a vast study of the Bible and Christianity through the course materials provided in partnership with: HARVESTIME INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE This course
More informationMission and Strategy Isaan Teams Sowing Seed to Plant Indigenous Churches
Mission and Strategy Isaan Teams Sowing Seed to Plant Indigenous Churches When He saw the crowds, He had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless like sheep without a shepherd (Matthew
More informationFirst United Methodist Church
First United Methodist Church Brookings, South Dakota April 21-23, 2017 The Missional Church Consultation Initiative (MCCI) Team would like to thank Pastors Wade and Theta Miller and the leadership of
More informationWomen s Ministry. Level 1: Laying the Foundation for Women s Ministry
Women s Ministry Level 1: Laying the Foundation for Women s Ministry Women s ministry exists to fulfill the purpose of the local church, which is the carrying out of the Great Commission. The fuel for
More informationPhilosophy of Ministry. Bethel Baptist Church exists to make and mature disciples of Jesus Christ for the glory of God
Philosophy of Ministry Bethel Baptist Church exists to make and mature disciples of Jesus Christ for the glory of God Introduction When Alice approached the Cheshire cat seeking for directions, he asked
More information3-D Living A Spirit-led Approach to Mission
3-D Living A Spirit-led Approach to Mission www.foxvalleychurch.org INTRODUCTION We want to be clear from the start, this training is not about making people feel guilty. Guilt has never produced a man
More informationGLOCAL- MISSIONAL TRAINING CENTER
GLOCAL- MISSIONAL TRAINING CENTER David Kim Mission Director linchouston.org 713-494-3127 davidkim@linchouston.org Andres Zelaya Church Planting Coordinator linchouston.org 281-908-8957 andres@linchouston.org
More informationJOSEPH & ERIN SUTTLE. Supporting Tribal Church Planting through Maintenance in Brazil
JOSEPH & ERIN SUTTLE Supporting Tribal Church Planting through Maintenance in Brazil ABOUT THE SUTTLES & THEIR MINISTRY After years of serving in youth ministry and doing missions part-time, Joe and Erin
More informationDoing Sunday School Right
Doing Sunday School Right PREPARATION: (NOTE THAT LEADER GUIDANCE IS CAPITALIZED AND IN BOLD FACE PRINT IN THE PREPARATION AND IN THE CONTENT.) (1) COPY THE STATEMENTS ABOUT SUNDAY SCHOOL FROM SUNDAY SCHOOL
More informationEvangelist. Large USA
OAC JOB GUIDELINES Evangelist At Large USA OPEN AIR CAMPAIGNERS, U.S., INC. PO Box D, Nazareth, PA 18064 (610) 746-0508 www.oacusa.org (Last Revised May 2013) EVANGELIST-AT-LARGE - USA Purpose The purpose
More informationSHEEP WITHOUT A SHEPHERD Essential Principles for Church Planting
We are a Christian faith-based, non-profit organization registered in Kenya that has an agency agreement with Vision Ministries Canada. For a list of our board members and additional information about
More informationValues Discovery. Theology of Values. A Values Overview. Values Discovery Question. Theology of Values
Values Discovery THE FELLOWSHIP EASTON, MA PREPARE THE GROUNDWORK FOR GROWTH & CHANGE Team Formation Church Ministry Lay the Spiritual Analysis Foundation PRIORITIZE IDENTITY FORMATION TO BUILD A GUIDING
More informationGlobal DISCPLE Training Alliance
Global DISCPLE Training Alliance 2011 Eighth Edition Written by Galen Burkholder and Tefera Bekere Illustrated by Angie Breneman TABLE OF CONTENTS CONTENTS PAGE PREFACE... 5 INTRODUCTION Born Out of Prayer
More informationSalvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.
7 DAYS OF PRAYER DAY 1: YOUTH God has given us the powerful tool of sports to share His love with young people all around the world, offering them a hope found only in Jesus Christ. We praise God for the
More informationhttp://www.pursuantgroup.com/leadnet/advance/sep07s1.htm Page 1 of 2 "The Big Idea" Practicum Offers Custom Strategy Learn how to creatively present one laser-focused theme in weekly worship services and
More informationMissions Education Level 5, Quarter C Christian Champions
Missions Education Level 5, Quarter C Christian Champions Integrate these World-missions concepts into your DiscipleLand lesson. Introduce your children to one missions truth each lesson. 2009, DiscipleLand.
More informationDumisani News May, 2018.
Dumisani News May, 2018. Dear Friends, I think after reading this newsletter you will agree that the start of 2018 has been quite a busy time at Dumisani and hopefully you will also be brought up-to-date
More informationUnwrap Hope 2016 GIFT CATALOG GIFTS THAT GIVE ETERNAL LIFE
Unwrap Hope 2016 GIFT CATALOG GIFTS THAT GIVE ETERNAL LIFE For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. JEREMIAH
More informationTHE SUMMIT CHURCH. MID-TERM Sending Guide
THE SUMMIT CHURCH MID-TERM Sending Guide May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face to shine upon us, Selah that your way may be known on earth, your saving power among all nations. Let the
More informationPreface. Preamble. Article I The Name and Legal Description
BETHEL BAPTIST CHURCH CONSTITUTION Preface There are many good reasons that a New Testament church should have a Covenant, Confession of Faith, Constitution, and Bylaws. Together they can greatly assist
More informationGeneral Leaders Sunday School Organization Guide. Finding your place of service
General Leaders Sunday School Organization Guide Finding your place of service General Leaders in the Basic Organization The Sunday School Planning Team The Sunday School Planning Team is comprised of
More information2018 Ministry Inquiries
! P.O. Box 6767 (3806 Monument Avenue), Richmond, Virginia 23230 Cooperative Program 2018 Ministry Inquiries 1. With an understanding that SBC entities who receive Cooperative Program funding share an
More informationp a s t o r MANUAL Helping YOUR CONGREGATION SHARE THE GOOD NEWS OF GOD S LOVE
p a s t o r MANUAL Helping YOUR CONGREGATION SHARE THE GOOD NEWS OF GOD S LOVE 2013 Billy Graham Evangelistic Association 1 Billy Graham Parkway Charlotte, NC 28201-0001 Scripture quotation marked NIV
More informationLDR Church Health Survey Instructions
LDR Church Health Survey Instructions 1. Selecting Participants How many questionnaires should be completed? The Church Health Survey is designed to be effective with: One pastor completing the survey
More informationThis pamphlet was produced by New Church Starts/Path 1.
This pamphlet was produced by New Church Starts/Path 1. If you would like to learn more about the resources that New Church Starts/Path 1 offers, visit us at: www.umcdiscipleship.org/new-church-starts
More informationAdult Sunday School Lesson Summary for November 23, 2008 Released on Wednesday, November 19, A Good Example
Adult Sunday School Lesson Summary for November 23, 2008 Released on Wednesday, November 19, 2008 A Good Example DEVOTIONAL READING: Acts 4:13-20 BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: 2 Timothy 2 4 SCRIPTURE LESSON: 2
More informationStanwich Congregational Church Senior Pastor Position Description
Stanwich Congregational Church Senior Pastor Position Description Stanwich Congregational Church is a nondenominational church that draws worshipers from Fairfield County, Connecticut, Westchester County,
More informationfood and clothing (Mt 6:33); promises for health and healing (Ps 103:1-5) and on and on!
In 2 Corinthians 13:14 the apostle Paul said, The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. The word used for communion is the exact same
More informationVOLUME 1 JANUARY/FEBRUARY, 2009 ISSUE
Prayerwalking Taking Your Faith Into The Real World Copyright 2009 VOLUME 1 JANUARY/FEBRUARY, 2009 ISSUE 1 WHAT IS PRAYERWALKING? Prayerwalking. You ve probably heard of it. Maybe you re unsure about it.
More informationYouth With A Mission
Atta Youth With A Mission T r i n i d a d & T o b a g o P.O. Box 9186, National Mail Centre, Piarco Trinidad, West Indies. Tel: 1-868-669-8871 E-mail: ywamttdir@yahoo.com Website: www.ywamtt.com Thank
More information